cristobalite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cristobalite” mean?
A high-temperature polymorph of quartz (silicon dioxide), a type of silica mineral.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A high-temperature polymorph of quartz (silicon dioxide), a type of silica mineral.
A specific crystalline form of silica, found in volcanic rocks and formed at high temperatures, often used in refractory materials and ceramics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
None; a standardised scientific term with no regional variation in spelling or primary meaning.
Connotations
None beyond its technical definition.
Frequency
Exclusively used in specialist scientific contexts in both regions. Equally rare in general discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “cristobalite” in a Sentence
Cristobalite is found in [rock type].The [material] contains [percentage] cristobalite.[Process] promotes the formation of cristobalite.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cristobalite” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cristobalitic phase was dominant.
- A cristobalite-rich layer was observed.
American English
- The cristobalitic phase was dominant.
- A cristobalite-rich layer was observed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
In geology and materials science journals: 'The XRD analysis confirmed the presence of cristobalite in the sintered ceramic matrix.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
In industrial ceramics specifications: 'The refractory brick must have a low cristobalite content to resist thermal shock.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cristobalite”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cristobalite”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cristobalite”
- Misspelling as 'crystobalite' or 'christobalite'.
- Using it as a general term for any shiny or crystalline substance.
- Incorrect pronunciation placing stress on the first syllable.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
As a fine, inhalable dust, cristobalite is a respirable crystalline silica and is a known occupational hazard, causing silicosis. In solid form, it is not hazardous.
It occurs naturally in volcanic rocks like obsidian and rhyolite, and is artificially formed in high-temperature industrial processes like ceramics firing and metal casting.
Both are SiO₂, but they have different crystal structures formed at different temperatures. Quartz is stable at lower temperatures, while cristobalite forms at very high temperatures.
Its formation and subsequent volume change during cooling can critically affect the durability and thermal shock resistance of refractory materials and ceramics, making its control essential.
A high-temperature polymorph of quartz (silicon dioxide), a type of silica mineral.
Cristobalite is usually technical / scientific in register.
Cristobalite: in British English it is pronounced /krɪˈstəʊbəlʌɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /krɪˈstoʊbəˌlaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'Crystal Ball Light' - a cristobalite is a crystalline (crystal) mineral sometimes found in volcanic rocks (associated with fire/light) and is a form of silica (like glass in a ball).
Practice
Quiz
Cristobalite is best described as a...